Authors: Georgina, Alysha, Sue
Day 7 began with a much appreciated sleep in (until 7am instead of the usual 6am) and a shorter commute to our first Study Tour destination in The Hague, the International Criminal Court (ICC). After the insightful lecture yesterday by Dr McGonigle on international criminal law, it was great to finally see where it all happens.
From outside, the building was impressive, stark white, surrounded by tall fences and security cameras; this place meant business. Upon entry, we were surprised to learn that the fast-paced establishment of the ICC meant that there was a rush to find a building. The current court is housed in a former telecommunications building, with the foyer and court rooms located in what was once the car park. We were informed that the court is in the process of building a new space and will move in 2015.
A representative from the office of the prosecutor provided an overview of the court organs and process as well as an update on the current matters before the court. After this, we were taken to the public viewing room of the court room. Although there was no trial in progress, it was interesting to see the layout of the court and how it differed from those in Australia. Notably, victims have the right to be involved in the trial process, with their own legal representatives being given an area in the court room and equal time to make statements.
Following a quick lunch where some of the group were serenaded by local church bells ringing Hello by Lionel Ritchie and our first real experience of European winter rain and winds, we made our way to the residence of the Australian Ambassador to the Netherlands. We were treated to tea, coffee and brownies that definitely lived up to their reputation as the best we would ever taste. The group was greeted by the Ambassador and a number of Australian and Adelaide legal alumni, including the preeminent Professor James Crawford, which was a wonderful surprise and definitely a highlight of the tour. We sat down in an informal setting next to the beautiful pine christmas tree and and heard about each of their experiences before being able ask questions of our own. We were treated to an insight into the increasing legal opportunities available to Australians abroad, the benefits of pursuing further education in Australia and abroad and and our jaws dropped upon hearing that Professor Crawford’s belief is that one should be able to read at a rate of 90-100 pages per hour.
Professor Crawford and his associate provided sound advice for those beginning to think about not only a career in international law but a legal career in general – the only barriers are the ones you create for yourself and that we should not close doors on any opportunity.
